While I’m still in the early stages, I’m incredibly motivated to learn, grow, and surround myself with like-minded individuals who can help guide me along the way.What drew me to real estate is that I saw it as the best route for me and family to have financial freedom.

Questions like this often get better and more actionable responses.Also, keep in mind that while this site is an incredible resource, opinions can sometimes come across as blunt.

I'd like to understand @Devin James, from the domestic developer mind of things; If there stands a confusion, lack of comprehension on how to address housing compilation in a given region, city, MSA etc., why not look to Europe? 

What have you been paying for utilities?

It seems like I need to check further away from the DMV area.My feelings are if you want “cash flow” you should buy a bond (I really like the tips rate right now) there is next to no reason to buy real estate for cash flow, if you are going to buy you should buy with appreciation in mind, which is not to say that’s the route I’d go, I’ve been liquidating properties to put in stocks and money market funds over the last few years and u just did the math and I’ve come out well ahead, but just to say there are arguments for stocks/bonds, there are arguments for levered appreciation, but the cap rates pretty much anywhere aren’t worth it vs an inflation protected bond, especially since a 3/rd of inflation is real estate anywhere, you could get “cash flow” and inflation protection much easier through a tips.

Areas with good rental demand or up-and-coming properties could give you more predictable returns.Do you already have a type of property in mind—like single-family homes, or are you considering duplexes, condos, or other types of flips?

Sellers are notorious for not communicating any changes in their unit counts to avoid paying taxes.  

So for her, the fees of 3% at closing and 1.5% per year is a steal vs paying $400,000.

Keep in mind that inexpensive properties are inexpensive because they are less desirable properties in less desirable areas and attract less desirable tenants.

Im thinking about paying the bank the 50lk that we owe and the taxes.